Young project leaders have started a £100,000 appeal to help fund their new state-of-the-art youth centre in Bradford.

Work to convert a former mill in Thornton Road into the Culture Fusion centre begins in September.

The scheme was confirmed last week when a £5 million ‘myplace’ grant was released by the Government. In total, the project will cost £7.38m.

Various grants have been identified to supplement the pay out and £1.44m has been confirmed from The Co-Location Fund. But project leaders aim to raise £100,000 in donations from individuals and businesses.

Culture Fusion Advisors – a team of young people aged 13 to 25 whose ideas have driven the scheme over the last 18 months – started their appeal in Centenary Square on Saturday.

Humair Shahid, 20, a Culture Fusion advisor, said: “Anyone who can make a donation will be helping a good cause and community cohesion in Bradford.”

Fellow advisor Khalid Ali, 24, said: “Culture Fusion is fresh, it’s new and this is a chance for individuals and businesses to have their name attached to something that’s so exciting. This building will get attention from young people everywhere.”

Bernie Gahan, Culture Fusion co-ordinator for the project’s lead agency, Bradford YMCA, said the centre would not have to rely on a loan if the fundraising target is met.

She said: “We understand there isn’t a lot of money out there but if people take this project to their hearts and want to contribute, we would welcome their support.”

Saturday’s event was a chance to celebrate the achievements so far. A main stage saw young people showcase their singing and dancing skills. DJ, boxercise and breakdance workshops were held in marquees with the help of Radio One DJ and myplace ambassador Ras Kwame.

Mr Kwame said: “In a multi-cultural community such as Bradford, Culture Fusion will help bring young people together. It will help to educate and to entertain.”

The event was organised by Bradford Council’s Integrated Youth Support Localities team, a key partner in the project. The vacant building to be occupied and extended by Culture Fusion was provided by the Council on a 999-year lease and the local authority played a leading role in securing funding.

Chris Wiley, who is head of the Council’s youth services, said: “It’s a fantastic, state-of-the-art facility for young people in the Bradford district. We’re going to make it absolutely fantastic and this is the starting point.”

Other partners include Bradford College, Bradford University, Metro, NHS, Bradford Peace Museum, Aspire-I, Bradford Youth Development Partnership and City Centre Project.

To make a donation to the fundraising appeal, call Mrs Gahan on (01274) 513106 or e-mail bernie.gahan@bradfordymca.org.uk.